The latest gaming industry data indicates that Sony's PlayStation 5 is dominating the console market, having sold over 50 million units to date with prospects to surpass the PlayStation 4's historical sales. Sony celebrated its most successful November for console sales and is targeting 25 million PS5 sales for the current fiscal year—which would mark a record-breaking achievement. Eric Lempel, a senior vice president at Sony Interactive Entertainment, is optimistic about reaching this milestone due to strong sales momentum.

On the other hand, Microsoft's Xbox Series X and S sales have been waning, particularly in Europe. Nonetheless, Microsoft maintains that console sales figures do not fully represent the Xbox ecosystem's performance, which includes PC, mobile, and the Game Pass subscription service. In 2023, PS5 sales grew by approximately 65% while Xbox sales dipped by 15%, resulting in the PS5 outselling the Xbox nearly three to one. Meanwhile, Nintendo Switch sales also saw an 18% decline in 2023 as anticipation grows for Nintendo's next-gen console expected to launch next year.

Strengthening its gaming portfolio, Microsoft acquired Activision Blizzard, adding blockbuster titles like Call of Duty and World of Warcraft to its offerings. Activision Blizzard games are slated to join Game Pass in 2024, hinting at day-one releases for future titles. Additionally, Microsoft is planning to challenge Apple and Google with its own app store. Despite the competition, Sony continues to see strong sales for its PS5 exclusive titles and recently saw Insomniac’s Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 break sales records. However, Sony’s push into live-service games received a setback with the cancellation of The Last of Us multiplayer project, and details of its mobile strategy remain under wraps.

Controversy arose this week when hackers leaked Insomniac's private staff information and game assets. The leak included material for Marvel's Wolverine and other unannounced games, but Sony has yet to issue a statement on the incident.

What is the best-selling console in 2023?

The PlayStation 5 is the best-selling console in 2023, having significantly outsold its competitors, the Xbox Series X and S, by almost three to one.